5 easy ways to manage your business and personal life

A daunting task for many is learning how to manage and balance both a professional and personal life. Learning how to balance the two is becoming more difficult, due to the fact that we are always connected through this wonderful invention we have called technology. Smartphones and laptops make it virtually impossible for most of the working class to get out of their work mode. We are constantly connected whether it be through emails and/or social media, the little devices that are supposed to make our lives easier are in actuality dampening our personal lives. A 2010 Statistics Canada General Social Survey showed that one in four Canadians experience work stress and 27 per cent or 3.7 million of the workforce describe their professional day as “quite a bit” or “extremely” stressful.

1) Disconnect from your devices: leave your device in another room or turn it off!

It may sound impossible to do, but being able to unwind is a lot easier while not reading work emails. Set a rule at home, i.e: no devices after dinner or no devices once you walk through the front door.

2) Routine: keeping a consistent daily routine will help accomplish a good balance between your work and home life. Also ensure that you are making healthier choices in your life style; such as getting a full 8 hours of sleep, keeping yourself active and maintaining a healthy diet.

3) Acknowledge the role of work: work isn’t “evil,” it pays the bills but, make sure you celebrate and enjoy the fruits of your labor every now and then.

4) Alone time: although it is nice to spend time with your significant other or the kids, alone time is 100 per cent necessary. Take an hour or two out of your week for you and do something that you enjoy. It can be something small, such as reading or shopping, just make sure to set some time aside for yourself.

5) Be present: being attentive does not only apply to your work life, it is also crucial for your personal life. Where you decide to place your time and energy has a huge affect on the balance you create for your work and home life.